Australians back US ambition and support 50% renewable energy by 2030: new poll

US President Barack Obama’s revised Clean Power Plan announced overnight will generate a boom in renewable energy such including solar, according to Solar Citizens.

National Director Claire O’Rourke said the new US plan is part of a global push towards renewables and Australia risks missing out on economic opportunities unless full support is thrown behind solar power.

“President Obama has shown strong leadership in placing renewable energy at the forefront of future energy plans for the United States,” Ms O’Rourke said today.

“At home we’re seeing millions of Australian households switching on to renewable energy by installing rooftop solar and saving money on soaring power bills.

“The Australian community believes in solar and renewables as the smart way of meeting our energy needs now and for ensuring a robust and thriving economy.

“A new Essential Research Poll to be released today reveals the overwhelming majority of Australians support the Labor Party’s policy of 50% renewable energy by 2030.

“The poll found 65% of Australians approve of a national target of generating 50% of Australia’s power from renewable energy by 2030, while only 16% disapprove.

“Australians have long been calling for more support for renewable energy and it is clear that Labor’s policy of a 50% target has struck a chord with the public.

“Despite ongoing Federal Government attacks on renewables, Liberal/National voters were more likely to approve (45%) than disapprove (35%) of 50% renewable energy by 2030.

“This poll demonstrates that renewables is above politics. The ongoing high level of support for renewable energy in Australia shows the vast majority of people support strong political leadership and a strong commitment to renewable energy,” said Claire O’Rourke, National Director at Solar Citizens.

“Australia’s solar and renewable energy industry has suffered from a sustained attack from the Abbott Government since it came to power, undermining jobs and investment, and the Australian people have clearly had enough.

“The community want to see a clear political commitment to a strong solar future and want an orderly plan to manage the way our energy system is changing. The Abbott Government should listen to the majority of Australians who support solar because it helps them take control of their power bills,” she said.